Multiligated

Multiligated is an adjective formed from multi- meaning many and ligate or ligature, describing something that has undergone or exhibits multiple ligations, ties, or joins. The term is used in contexts where more than one ligation event or ligature is applied to secure, join, or isolate structures.

In surgical contexts, a multiligated vessel or tissue region has received several ligatures. This practice can improve control of bleeding or isolate a structure, but it can also increase tissue trauma and the risk of ischemia if blood flow to surrounding areas is affected. Documentation may specify the number and location of ligatures; however, multiligated is typically descriptive rather than a standardized category.

In molecular biology and genetics, multiligated may describe constructs assembled from multiple DNA fragments joined by ligation. Such usage is uncommon and not standardized; more precise terms include multifragment ligation or multifragment assembly. When used, the descriptor signals that several ligation junctions exist within a single molecule or construct, which can influence cloning efficiency and downstream analysis.

Etymology and usage notes: the term derives from Latin ligatus, “tied,” with the prefix multi- indicating multiple instances. Because multiligated is not a widely standardized term, readers should interpret it from contextual cues in surgical notes or experimental descriptions.

See also: ligation, ligature, DNA ligase, plasmid cloning, surgical hemostasis.